Study Smarter: 7 Evidence-Based Habits
A short, free PDF that turns the research in our articles into habits you can start tonight.
- Why rereading feels good but tests poorly
- How to space your study sessions
- What sleep does for memory
- When to stop the coffee
- How long habits really take
- How to ask AI better questions
- A five-minute check for AI answers
A free library, by subject
Every book here is free to read online and to download, legally. Most are from OpenStax at Rice University, whose books are peer-reviewed and used by universities worldwide.
Biology
- Concepts of BiologyIntroductory
A gentle first course in biology. A good bridge from school to university.
- Biology 2eUniversity
A full two-semester biology text, from molecules to ecosystems.
- MicrobiologyUniversity
Microbes, immunity and disease, written for health-science students.
- Anatomy and Physiology 2eUniversity
The human body, system by system. Useful for medical and nursing entry tests.
Chemistry
- Chemistry 2eUniversity
The standard general-chemistry course, with worked examples.
- Chemistry: Atoms First 2eUniversity
The same course, starting from atoms and building up. Many students find it easier.
Physics
- PhysicsHigh school
A clear high-school physics book. A good match for Class 9 to 12.
- College Physics 2eIntroductory
Algebra-based physics, well suited to entry-test preparation.
- University Physics Volume 1University
Calculus-based mechanics, waves and heat.
Mind and data
- Psychology 2eIntroductory
Memory, learning, emotion and behaviour. Pairs well with our Field Notes.
- Introductory Statistics 2eIntroductory
The statistics you need to read research papers with confidence.
AI
- Elements of AIBeginner
A free online course on what AI is and is not, with no maths or coding needed.
- Dive into Deep LearningAdvanced
A free interactive book with code, for those who want to build models themselves.
Links open the publishers' own pages. Neurovia One is not affiliated with OpenStax or the other publishers.
How to read a textbook so it sticks
Read one section, close the book and write down what you remember. Then check. Spread your reading over several days instead of one long session. Both habits are explained, with the evidence, in Why Testing Yourself Beats Rereading and Why Spacing Beats Cramming.